New residences coming to Aiea

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell stated the obvious Wednesday. "Rail's going to be coming through here, by 2017. It's going start to come through this part of town in the not too distant future".

What is not obvious, at least to the naked eye, is how dynamic the Pearlridge community will become because of it. The "Live, Work, Play, Aiea" redevelopment promises to enliven the area via transit oriented development.

"Through rail, through bus, through bike, through walking...all connected to this community right here" the mayor continued.

Five towers will house 1500 residential units. Those will be a mix of for-sale and affordable rental residences. There are plans for retail, office and open spaces to create a neighborhood feel.

"This is really smart growth at its best. With slimmer buildings, greenery, open spaces, gathering places. This is where you can live and walk and bike without jumping into your car to go to the grocery store" said Honolulu City Councilman Breen Harimoto.

The construction is set to begin next year on the first phase of the project. Two other phases will follow. Total project completion isn't expected until sometime between 2024 and 2026.